Derbyshire motorists test positive for drink-driving

More than 13 per cent of motorists breathalysed during a police crackdown on drink-driving in December gave a positive test, refused to take it or failed to provide a sample.

The annual campaign ran throughout December and was a joint effort between Derbyshire Constabulary and Crimestoppers.

Rewards were offered through the independent charity for anyone who gave information leading to the charging of a drink-driver.

From December 1 and 31, officers carried out 668 breath tests on motorists across Derbyshire. A total of 88 drivers tested positive, failed to provide a sample or refused to take the test.

T/Superintendent Steve Wilson, head of roads policing, said: “The increase in the number of breath tests carried out over the festive period shows just how seriously we take this issue.

“Even having one driver who drinks too much and then gets behind the wheel is one too many.

“We will continue with these operations to bring the number down further and our focus on stopping drink-drivers doesn’t end on December 31.

“It carries on all year round, so I’d urge anyone who has any information on a drink-driver to call police or Crimestoppers and help us keep our roads safe.”

The 88 drivers providing positive tests this year is an increase compared to the 79 who tested positive in 2013, however, 130 more drivers were breath tested this year compared to last.

Of the total number of people breathalysed during December 2014, 146 were aged under 25. Twenty of those (13 per cent) failed to provide a sample, refused the test or tested positive.

T/Supt Wilson said: “The number of drivers under 25 who were stopped and either failed the test, refused it or gave a positive result was similar this year to what it was in 2013.

“Both of those years showed a significant drop compared to 2012 - where almost half of the 106 under 25 drivers tested gave a positive result but again, notwithstanding the continued reduction since 2012, the number is still too high.

“Young drivers need to be aware of the consequences of driving under the influence of drink and/or drugs, and we will continue to target those who put themselves and other road users at risk, regardless of their age.”

There were fewer collisions reported this year (501) compared to 548 last year, with the same number of drivers (42) providing a positive test, failing or refusing to provide a test following a collision.

Eight drivers were arrested this year for driving whilst impaired though drugs, due to an increased police focus on combatting drug driving.

If you see a driver who you believe has had too much to drink and is about to get behind the wheel, call 999 and report them immediately. If you have non-urgent information, call 101.

You can also call Crimestoppers, anonymously, on 0800 555 111.

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